Fire Department News Releases

Woodstock Fire Department received 228 combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms through Safe Community Project Zero–a public education campaign with the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council (FMPFSC) that will provide more than 14,500 alarms to residents in 75 communities across Ontario.

This year, Enbridge Gas invested $450,000 in Safe Community Project Zero, and over the past 16 years, the program has provided more than 101,000 alarms to Ontario fire departments.

When properly installed and maintained, combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms help provide the early warning to safely escape from a house fire or carbon monoxide exposure. Carbon monoxide is a toxic, odourless gas that is a by-product of incomplete combustion of many types of common fuels.

“The best way to reduce potential exposure to carbon monoxide is to properly maintain fuel-burning equipment,” says Spencer Pray, Senior Advisor, Municipal and Stakeholder Engagement, Enbridge Gas. “These alarms are a critical second line of defence against carbon monoxide poisoning, known as ‘the silent killer’. We’re proud to support our communities, and raise awareness and help Ontarians implement these protection strategies.”

“Across Ontario there is a renewed focus on the importance of having working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home. The objective of Safe Community Project Zero is to deliver these alarms to areas where they are needed most,” says Jon Pegg, Ontario Fire Marshal and Chair of the FMPFSC. “It’s a program that helps fire departments educate their communities about the requirements to have working smoke alarms installed in all Ontario homes and for all Ontario homes to have a carbon monoxide alarm if they have a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage.”

“We are extremely pleased to be chosen as a recipient of this significant donation of smoke/carbon monoxide alarms. As a department, we work diligently to ensure the safety of all our residents and these alarms will ensure access,” says Fire Chief Slager.

About the FMPFSC
The FMPFSC was established in 1993 with a mission to help create “a world where no one is hurt by fire.” Chaired by the Ontario Fire Marshal, the FMPFSC promotes fire prevention and public education through sponsorships and partnerships with various groups and individuals with an interest in public safety. Follow the FMPFSC on Twitter @FMPFSC.

About Enbridge Gas
Enbridge Gas is Canada's largest natural gas storage, transmission and distribution company based in Ontario, with 2023 marking its 175th anniversary of serving customers. The distribution business provides safe, affordable, reliable energy to about 3.9 million customers and is innovating to contribute to a lower-carbon energy future. The storage and transmission business offers a variety of storage and transportation services to customers at the Dawn Hub, the largest integrated underground storage facility in Canada and one of the largest in North America. Enbridge Gas is owned by Enbridge (ENB), a Canadian-based leader in energy transportation and distribution. Visit enbridgegas.com to learn more.

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This Saturday the City of Woodstock is joining communities across Ontario by asking everyone to take a minute and to ensure that there are working smoke alarms installed in their home.

“Being prepared to act in the event of a fire starts with simply pressing the test button and having the confidence that a working smoke alarm is in your home,” said Fire Chief Jeff Slager. “Lives will be saved by testing smoke alarms at least once a month, refreshing batteries at least once a year, and replacing smoke alarms older than 10 years.”

In 2022, Ontario lost 133 people to deadly fires – the highest number in over 20 years. Many of these fires were found to have no working smoke alarm and stand as a reminder that only working smoke alarms alert you to a fire and give you and your loved ones enough time to safely escape.

On September 28 the Woodstock Fire Department asks that you and your family:

• Makes sure your home is protected with a working smoke alarm on each level.
• PRESS THE TEST BUTTON to ensure your alarm is working and that an audible alarm tone sounds.
• Replace the battery or ensure it is connected to a power source if no alarm is sounding.
• Replace any smoke alarms that do not operate or are over 10 years old. Smoke alarms don’t last forever, even the hardwired alarms expire! Replace smoke alarms according to manufacturer’s instructions and with the same style (battery for battery/hardwired for hardwired).
• Test the smoke alarms in all your residences, including vacation homes, cabins, trailers, RVs, and cottages.
• Notify your landlord as soon as you become aware that the smoke alarm is not operating properly. Landlords must test alarms annually, after the battery is replaced, and after every change in tenancy.

For more information visit www.savedbythebeep.ca

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Property damage is estimated to be approximately $40,000. The origin and cause of this fire is still under investigation.

“This incident is a perfect example of how working smoke alarms, coupled with staff training and response, plays a critical role should a fire occur in your building.”, states Fire Chief Jeff Slager. “No injuries and minimal property damage are directly due to these being in place”.

If you require assistance or have questions please contact us at (519) 537-3412 extension 5205 or visit the Woodstock Fire Department website, accessible from www.cityofwoodstock.ca/wfd.

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Woodstock, ON – November 1, 2023, November 1-7^th marks the 7^th year of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week’s inception. The Ontario Fire Code was amended October 15, 2014 to require CO alarms after the provincial government passed Bill 77 – the Hawkins Gignac Act, in December 2013. Bill 77 was named after Laurie Hawkins who, along with her husband Richard and children Cassandra and Jordan, succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning from a gas fireplace in their home.

“This tragedy not only affected the Hawkins & Gignac families, and the emergency responders who attended the scene, but our community as a whole. The Woodstock Fire Department works diligently to prevent a tragedy like this from occurring again.” said Fire Chief Jeff Slager.

“If your home has a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage, you must have a working CO alarm adjacent to each sleeping area of the home,” said Woodstock’s Fire Chief Jeff Slager “For added protection, install a carbon monoxide alarm on every storey of the home according to manufacturer’s instructions.” Fuel-burning appliances can include furnaces, hot water heaters, gas or wood fireplaces, portable fuel-burning heaters and generators, barbeques, stoves and vehicles.

The Ontario Fire Code also requires that in condo and apartment buildings with a service room, CO alarms must be installed in the service room and adjacent to each sleeping area of all homes above, below and beside the service room. In condo or apartment buildings that have a garage, CO alarms must be installed adjacent to each sleeping area of all homes above, below and beside the garage.

 What is CO?

• CO is known as the silent killer because it is an invisible, tasteless and odourless gas that can be deadly.
• CO is produced when fuels such as propane, gasoline, natural gas, heating oil or wood do not burn completely in fuel-burning appliances and devices such as furnaces, gas or wood fireplaces, hot water heaters, stoves, barbeques, portable fuel-burning heaters and generators and vehicles.

 Prevent CO in your home:

• Ensure all fuel-burning appliances in your home are inspected annually. Visit COSafety.ca to find a registered contractor near you.
• Check that all outside appliance vents are not blocked.
• Never use a portable fuel-burning appliance inside (i.e. barbeques, portable heaters and generators).

  Know the symptoms of CO:

• Exposure to CO can cause flu-like symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, as well as confusion, drowsiness, loss of consciousness and death.
• If your CO alarm sounds, and you or other occupants suffer from symptoms of CO poisoning, get everyone out of the home immediately. Then call 9-1-1 or your local emergency services number from outside the building.
• If your CO alarm sounds, and no one is suffering from symptoms of CO poisoning, check to see if the battery needs replacing, or if the alarm has reached its "end-of-life" before calling 9-1-1.

 Know the sound of your CO alarm:

• Your CO alarm sounds different than your smoke alarm. Test both alarms monthly and make sure everyone in your home knows the difference between the two alarm sounds.
• Don’t be confused by the sound of your CO alarm’s low-battery warning. Follow your CO alarm manufacturer’s instructions so you know the difference between the low-battery warning, the “end-of-life” warning, and the alarm alerting you to the presence of CO in your home.

For more CO safety tips, visit www.cityofwoodstock.ca look for Woodstock Fire Department webpage. 

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September 27, 2023 - Woodstock, ON - Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, is Ontario's first “Test Your Smoke Alarm Day!  The Woodstock Fire Department wants you to join all Ontarians to learn more about smoke alarms, fire safety, and home fire escape planning, which could save you and your loved ones. Most importantly, we want you to test your smoke alarms!

Having working smoke alarms won't just save your life – it's the law.

Every home in Ontario is required by law to have working smoke alarms on every story and outside all sleeping areas. For added protection, install working smoke alarms in every bedroom.

“Most fatal fires have occurred at night, when everyone is asleep, at locations without working smoke alarms present,” said Fire Chief Jeff Slager.  “Working smoke alarms will give you the early warning you need for everyone to get out safely.”

Tip for Installing, testing and maintaining smoke alarms:

•There are many types of smoke alarms. Smoke alarms can be hard wired, battery operated, or both. When replacing a smoke alarm, you must replace it with the same type that was there.

•Because smoke rises, ceilings are the best location to mount your smoke alarms. Avoid placing alarms near bathrooms, heating appliances, windows, and ceiling fans. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing smoke alarms.

•Test smoke alarms at least every month by pressing the test button and listening for the three-beep alarm.

•Replace smoke alarm batteries at least once a year, and whenever the low-battery warning chirps.

•Smoke alarms don't last forever. Replace smoke alarms according to manufacturer's instructions, usually every 10 years.

•When replacing interconnected smoke alarms, it is advisable to replace all units in the system at the same time. If you need to replace a single malfunctioning alarm, make sure the new alarm is compatible with the existing units. You cannot replace a hard-wired smoke alarm with a battery-operated smoke alarm.  

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On June 20, 2023 first responders, along with City and Fanshawe College staff were put to the test in a chaotic training exercise. The scenario had Woodstock Fire, Woodstock Police, Oxford County EMS and emergency coordination teams from both Fanshawe and the City of Woodstock simulating their response to a dispute between two individuals that led to a multi-casualty event.

“The student actors delivered very convincing performances which added a very realistic feel to the exercise. It’s often frantic in an actual event, first responders need to be able to remain calm and do what we need to do amongst the chaos,” said Woodstock Fire Chief Jeff Slager. “These exercises are a valuable way to not only test our response plans, but also how we work in collaboration with other first responders.”

The mock situation was contained quickly and demonstrated that the plans the participating organization have in place are effective. There were a few takeaways for each of the organizations to go back and implement, things like equipment not performing exactly as anticipated and updating some documentation that will help save time in an actual emergency.

Under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act municipalities are required to develop an emergency management program to help keep people and properties safe in case of an emergency. Individuals and families should also have a plan and prepare a kit with supplies to meet the unique needs of their family for at least 72 hours. 

View photo gallery from the training exercise

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Woodstock ON, June 13, 2023 – The Open-Air Burning ban for those who have existing, and current permits has been lifted, effective 4:00 p.m. today.

Residents are reminded to abide by the open-air burning requirements as outlined in the bylaw.

The Woodstock Fire Department will continue to monitor weather conditions and address the needs for future restrictions accordingly.  

If you have questions about permits or the bylaw, please visit www.cityofwoodstock.ca or contact us at (519) 537-3412 ext. 5203.

Jeff Slager, Fire Chief

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Due to current dry conditions and the special air quality statement issued by Environment Canada, the Woodstock Fire Department issuing a complete ban on all open-air burning within the municipality. This applies to all recreational and agricultural burning.  

This ban does not affect manufactured appliances such as barbeques or other propane fueled devices.

While there is some rain in the short-term forecast, the ongoing conditions will be monitored in determining when the ban will be lifted.

Remember, all fires start small and can have devastating effects!

Jeff Slager, Fire Chief

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Woodstock, ON – December 23, 2022 

As we gather together with family and friends, I would like to take this opportunity to remind all City of Woodstock residents to continue practicing holiday fire safety. Ensure your homes have working smoke and CO alarms, and that your guests are aware of your fire evacuation plans.

The Christmas season brings an increase in the risk of fires due to candles, cooking, smoking, the use of extension cords, decorative lighting, improperly maintained Christmas trees, as well as the use of alcohol. Enjoy the time spent with family and friends, but continue to lead a fire safe life.

On behalf of the Woodstock Fire Department staff and families, we would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Be safe out there!

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Jeff Slager

Fire Chief

WOODSTOCK, ON (October 21, 2022) – The Woodstock Fire Department is reminding residents celebrating Diwali to think about fire safety during one of the most important festivals in their religious calendar.

Diwali is a festival of lights and is one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs. It is a tradition for homes to be decorated with oil lamps or divas, candles, lights and for fireworks to be set off.  As per the Fireworks Bylaw within the City of Woodstock, Monday October 24, 2022, the actual day of Diwali is the only permitted day to set off fireworks.

Fire Chief Jeff Slager said, “As with any special occasion we want to make those celebrating more aware of the dangers surrounding the increased use of candles in their homes and to take care when cooking or using fireworks”.

Fireworks safety reminders:

• Appoint a responsible person to be in charge. Only adults who are aware of the hazards and essential safety precautions should handle and discharge fireworks.
• Carefully read and follow the label directions on fireworks packaging.
• Always keep a water hose or pail of water close by when discharging fireworks.
• Discharge fireworks well away from combustible materials like buildings, trees, and dry grass.
• Keep onlookers a safe distance away, upwind from the area where fireworks are discharged.
• Light only one firework at a time and only when they are located on the ground. Never try to light a firework in your hand or re-light dud fireworks. For dud fireworks, it is best to wait 30 minutes and soak them in a bucket of water. Dispose of them in a metal container.
• Discharge fireworks only if wind conditions do not create a safety hazard.
• Keep sparklers away from children. Sparklers burn extremely hot and can ignite clothing, cause blindness and result in severe burns. As the sparkler wire remains hot for some minutes after burnout, it should be immediately soaked in water to avoid injury.
• If someone is burned, run cool water over the wound for three to five minutes and if necessary, seek medical attention.

Other safety tips to enjoy a safe Diwali:

• When lighting candles or small oil lamps, keep flames at a safe distance from curtains, furniture, decorations, and loose clothing. Always be sure to extinguish before leaving the room or going to bed
• Keep candles in sturdy holders on level surfaces with a glass chimney or shade over it.
• Cooking safety – clear the area of items that might catch fire easily. Never leave cooking unattended.
• Install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas and install carbon monoxide alarms outside any sleeping areas. Test your alarms monthly.

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Woodstock, ON – May 4, 2022 Emergency Preparedness Week is May 1 to 7, 2022.  This year’s theme is Emergency Preparedness: “Be Ready for Anything!”

Emergency Preparedness Week encourages Canadians to take concrete actions to be better prepared to protect themselves and their families during emergencies. This special week is a national effort lead by Public Safety Canada, provincial and territorial emergency management organizations, Indigenous organizations, non-governmental organizations, and private sector.

“Natural disasters may be beyond anyone’s control, but there are ways to reduce the risk and the impact of whatever emergency we might face” says Jeff Slager, Fire Chief and Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC) for the City of Woodstock. “We encourage all Woodstock residents to take action as soon as possible and become better prepared by putting together an emergency kit for emergencies such as flood, tornado, fire, pandemic etc. Being prepared for anything is everyone’s business and safety of your family is in your hands!”

To highlight the importance of Emergency Preparedness, on May 4th, 2022 the Woodstock Fire Department, Woodstock Police Services, Oxford County EMS, Southwestern Public Health, Woodstock General Hospital, Salvation Army, Victim Services VASoc, and Woodstock Board of Works will be out at 645 Dundas Street in Woodstock to host Building Resiliency Expo Event. The goal of the event is to raise awareness among the public and to recognize the collective efforts of those involved in emergency preparedness.

The Woodstock Fire Department is sharing emergency preparedness information and reminders throughout the week through Twitter (@WoodstockFireDe), Facebook (@WoodstockFireDepartment) and Instagram (@woodstock_firedepartment). Residents may also visit http://oxford72hours.ca/ https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/ for more information

We must become resilient together and “Be Ready for Anything!”

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Woodstock, ON – December 23, 2021, On behalf of the Woodstock Fire Department, I want to wish all those who call the City of Woodstock home a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and a fire safe holiday period.

While this year has continued to be challenging on all fronts, we have seen forward progress and the return of many “norms” that we cautiously set aside last year. We look forward to this holiday time to connect (safely) with family and enjoy some much needed down time.

May the holidays bring you rest and happiness.

Happy Holidays!

Jeff Slager, Fire Chief

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Woodstock, ON – November 12, 2021, The Woodstock Fire Department is reminding everyone to keep fire safety at the forefront as the temperatures turn colder.  “We tend to see an increase in fire incidents at home during the winter months due to the increased use of heating equipment and appliances,” said Fire Chief Jeff Slager. “We are urge everyone to be aware of potential fire hazards associated with fireplaces, furnaces, chimneys, vents, and space heaters.”  

There are some simple things people can do to stay fire safe during the colder months: 

• Have all fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a registered fuel contractor. Go to COSafety.ca to find a contractor near you.
• Keep chimneys and intake/exhaust vents for furnaces and heating appliances free of debris, ice and snow accumulations to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) build-up from inefficient combustion.
• Burn dry, well-seasoned wood in fireplaces and wood stoves to reduce the risk of excessive creosote build-up in chimneys.
• Allow ashes from your fireplace or wood stove to cool before emptying them into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the container outside.
• Keep space heaters at least one metre (3 feet) away from anything that can burn, including curtains, upholstery and clothing.
• Replace worn or damaged electrical wires and connections on vehicles and extension cords and use the proper gauge extension cord for vehicle block heaters.
• Consider using approved timers for vehicle block heaters rather than leaving heaters on all night.
• Ensure that vehicles are not left running inside any garage or building.
• Ensure there is a working smoke alarm on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your home.
• Install CO alarms to alert you to the presence of this deadly gas.

Woodstock Fire Department reminds everyone that the Ontario Fire Code requires smoke alarms to be installed on every storey of your home and outside all sleeping areas. Carbon monoxide alarms are required outside all sleeping areas if the home has a fuel-burning appliance, a fireplace or an attached garage. For more information about smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, or fire safety, contact Woodstock Fire Department.

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Woodstock – May 31, 2021, Woodstock Firefighters were called to a structure fire on Friday May 28, at 1390 Dundas Street. Heavy smoke was visible on route. Upon arrival a shed was found to be fully involved. Initial reports were that an individual may have been staying in the shed; however, the individual was located safe on the property. Firefighters were quickly able to bring the fire under control. The attending Fire Inspector determined the cause of the fire to be the electrical failure of an extension cord. Damages are estimated to be $4,000.00.

The Woodstock Fire Department would like to offer the following fire safety tips for using electrical outlets and cords:

• Avoid running cords under rugs which can damage the cord and cause a fire.
• Avoid overloading a circuit with "octopus outlets". If additional outlets or circuits are required, have them installed by a licensed electrician.
• Extension cords should be used only as a temporary connection. If permanent wiring is required, have additional outlets installed by a licensed electrician. Extension cords should not be linked together—use an extension cord that is long enough to do the job.
• Air conditioners and other heavy appliances should be plugged directly into an outlet.
• Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) should be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and garages. GFCIs shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard.
• Check electrical cords for damage such as fraying or nicks. A damaged cord can expose wires and result in a potential shock or fire hazard.

On Sunday May 30, at 2:26 am firefighters were called to report of a barn fire at the corner of the 11^th line and Oxford Road 17. It was determined to be in the East Zorra-Tavistock Fire Department response area and as part of the Oxford Fire Department’s Mutual Aid Agreement, Woodstock Fire Department remained and assisted with the fire.

“Incidents on the borders of Fire Department coverage areas can sometimes lead to the wrong Department being dispatched, if the address is not exactly known” said Fire Chief Jeff Slager.

“The Mutual Aid Agreement involving the Fire Departments of Oxford County provide opportunities for assistance in all types of responses, either due to specialize equipment and skills or simply the incorrect location being provided by the caller.” he added.

Fire Prevention Division would like to remind residents that smoke alarms are required on every level of your home, including outside of all sleeping areas. Smoke alarms provide you with an early warning should a fire occur and can allow advance time for you and your family to safely escape.

Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms today and ensure they are working!

If you require assistance or have questions please contact our Fire Prevention Division at (519) 537-3412 extension 5203 or you can also get safety information from the Woodstock Fire Department website, accessible from www.cityofwoodstock.ca website.

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The City of Woodstock, Ontario put its brand new Pierce 107’ Ascendant aerial into service on Friday, May 14th, replacing Woodstock’s Platform 1, which was damaged at the Nellis Street Fairgrounds fire. “When developing the RFP for a new aerial, we needed a unit that can operate effectively as either a sole apparatus response or as part of a multi-apparatus response, to address the changing needs of our Community” said Fire Chief Jeff Slager. “I’m extremely pleased with our new Aerial 1 being able to fit both of those roles.”

The 107’ Ascendant aerial sits on a Pierce Enforcer single axle chassis and is powered by a Cummins L9, 450 hp engine. Key features include a 22,800 lb. Oshkosh TAK-4 independent front suspension (IFT) and the Pierce Husky 3 foam system. The Oshkosh TAK-4 IFT provides improved ride quality & control, shortened stopping distances, increased load carrying capacity, advanced braking performance, and maximized manoeuvrability. The Husky 3 foam system is easy to operate with just a one-button operation required to create foam. The 3 gpm foam pump provides capacity to handle structure fires, wildland fires, automotive fires, and small class B spills. Additional key features include a 500 USG water tank, 20 USG foam tank, Waterous 2,000 gpm pump, Mechanical Q siren, and three crosslays.

“As the City of Woodstock continues to grow in both population and economic development, it is critical for our Fire Service to have the needed tools to meet this growth” said Deputy Fire Chief Trevor Shea. “Aerial 1 provides for the needs of our Department today and for where our needs will be in the future. ”Thank you to Fire Chief Slager and the City of Woodstock for trusting Commercial Emergency Equipment to provide you with your new Pierce fire apparatus.

If you require additional information about the Woodstock Fire Department please visit the City website, accessible from www.cityofwoodstock.ca residential portion of the webpage and click on the fire department’s link. If you have questions you can also reach us by calling (519) 537-3412 extension 5203.

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“We understand that with the current stay-at-home order, families are looking for ways to have fun at home; however, fireworks can be extremely dangerous, especially for those not familiar with the hazards.” said Fire Chief Jeff Slager.  “If you do choose to have a display, follow our safety guidelines and be aware of combustibles in the area. Fireworks burn hot, and a star landing on a house or shed can lead to tragedy.” he added.

As an alternative there are many virtual fireworks being displayed this year and we encourage residents to tune in to enjoy them safely.

If you choose to have a family fireworks display, check with your local fire department about regulations regarding fireworks, in addition to following the stay-at-home protocols. Here are some important safety tips to be followed:

1. Appoint a responsible person to be in charge. Only adults who are aware of the hazards and essential safety precautions should handle and discharge fireworks.
2. Carefully read and follow the label directions on fireworks packaging.
3. Always keep a water hose or pail of water close by when discharging fireworks.
4. Discharge fireworks well away from combustible materials like buildings, trees and dry grass.
5. Keep onlookers a safe distance away, upwind from the area where fireworks are discharged.
6. Light only one firework at a time and only when they are on the ground. Never try to light a firework in your hand or re-light dud fireworks. For dud fireworks, it is best to wait 30 minutes and soak them in a bucket of water. Dispose of them in a metal container.
7. Discharge fireworks only if wind conditions do not create a safety hazard.
8. Keep sparklers away from children. Sparklers burn extremely hot and can ignite clothing, cause blindness and result in severe burns. As the sparkler wire remains hot for some minutes after burnout, it should be immediately soaked in water to avoid injury.
9. If someone gets burned, run cool water over the wound for three to five minutes and seek medical attention, if necessary.

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Woodstock – May 12, 2021, At 8:15pm on Tuesday May 11^th Woodstock Firefighters were called to a report of smoke in a kitchen of a residential home. Upon arrival it was found the fire was caused by cooking grease on the stovetop.  The fire had caused damage to above cupboards and microwave range.

“Woodstock Fire has noticed a rise in the number of incidents related to “unattended cooking” from this time last year” said Fire Chief Jeff Slager. “Kitchen fires are the number one cause of home fires and fire injuries in Ontario. Provincially the number of fire fatalities are at 54 which is up from 44 at the same time last year” he added. “We want to stress to the citizens of Woodstock the importance of being alert while in the kitchen”

Here are tips for preventing cooking fires:

• To prevent cooking fires, you must be alert. You will not be alert if you are sleepy, have consumed alcohol, drugs or medicine that makes you drowsy.
• Always stay in the kitchen while cooking. If you must leave, turn off the stove.
• Keep anything that burns—oven mitts, cooking utensils, dish cloths, paper towels and pot holders— a safe distance from the stove.
• Keep a proper-fitting pot lid near the stove when cooking. If a pot catches fire slide the lid over the pot and turn off the stove. Do not move the pot until it has cooled completely.
• Loose-fitting clothes can come into contact with stove burners and catch fire. Wear short sleeves, tight sleeves or roll them up when cooking.

Kitchen fires are preventable, remember to “Look while you Cook”.

The Fire Prevention Division would like to remind residents that smoke alarms are required on every level of your home, including outside of all sleeping areas. Smoke alarms provide you with an early warning should a fire occur and can allow advance time for you and your family to safely escape.

Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms today and ensure they are working!

If you require assistance or have questions please contact our Fire Prevention Division at

(519) 537-3412 extension 5203 or you can also get safety information from the Woodstock Fire Department website, accessible from www.cityofwoodstock.ca website.

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Woodstock – March 19, 2021 The Woodstock Fire Department is reminding residents that with Spring’s arrival tomorrow and warmer weather prompting the urge to complete yard maintenance, all that yard waste cannot be burned in your fire pit.

“With spring outdoor cleanup starting, we are seeing a rise with incidents where residents are burning brush and yard debris on their property,” explained Fire Chief Slager.  “While cleaning up debris and limiting the level of flammable vegetation surrounding your home is a good practice, our Open Air Burning bylaw does not allow for the burning of yard debris. The James Street waste depot is a free location to bring this material.”

In Woodstock a permit is required for all outdoor wood burning appliances. You can access the information at www.cityofwoodstock.ca.

Open air burning can include the use of outdoor fireplaces and cooking fires not involving the use of a barbeque. Some outdoor appliances used are not recommended because there is potential for personal injury, property damage and increased risk of a grass fire.

“Whether in the backyard of your home, the cottage or at a campground, make fire safety a priority,” said Fire Chief Slager. “Open air burning, especially if left unattended, can become difficult to control and can result in a serious widespread fire.”

Always keep fire safety in mind, contact The Woodstock Fire Department for more information or any questions you have about our open air burning requirements.

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WOODSTOCK, ON – January 24, 2021 – Woodstock firefighters were dispatched to a report of a detached garage fire with smoke and flames showing at 7:38pm Sunday evening. Fire crews arrived within minutes and the fire was quickly brought under control with no damage to the detached house or neighbouring property. Damages are estimated to be $3,000 to property and contents.  A post fire overhaul determined the cause of the fire to be an improperly installed wood stove in the garage.

If you use wood to heat your home or garage you can enjoy the benefits of a wood burning stove in safe comfort by taking a few simple precautions: 

• Creosote, a crusty residue left behind from smoke, may ignite into a dangerous fire.  Reduce creosote by burning only clean (non-treated or painted) and seasoned (dry) wood.  Do not burn garbage materials such as paper, plastics, etc.

• Regularly remove ashes from ovens and fireplaces and store in a non-combustible container with lid in a safe area.

• Keep combustible and household items away from wood burning stoves and fireplaces.

• Use a properly fitted screen around fireplaces to help prevent escaping sparks.

• Ensure wood burning stoves and fire places are inspected annually by a qualified technician certified by the Wood Energy Technical Training (WETT) program.

Contact your insurance company for further information.

The Fire Prevention Division would also like to remind residents that as per the Ontario Fire Code you are required to have smoke alarms on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas. Smoke alarms provide you with early warning should a fire occur and can allow for advance time for you and your family to safely escape.

If you require assistance or have questions please contact our Fire Prevention Division at (519) 537-3412 extension 5203 or you can also get safety information from the Woodstock Fire Department website.

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